Report: Ozil to refuse January loan move away from Arsenal

Despite manager Unai Emery leaving him off Arsenal's squad entirely in recent matches, Mesut Ozil is intent on spurning any potential loan moves away from the Gunners in January, and he instead wants fight for a consistent spot in the starting XI, sources told ESPN's Ralph Honigstein.

Ozil has been considered by some, including The Independent's Miguel Delaney, to be a possible candidate for a winter move away from the Gunners due to his approximate £300,000 weekly wage, and a perceived inability to adapt to Emery's high-pressing style.

Though Emery stated earlier this month that Ozil has a future at the club, the 30-year-old has fluctuated in and out of the team sheet this season, with the Spanish manager citing both injuries and tactical concerns as reasons for the exclusions.

Back issues ruled Ozil out for three consecutive matches in early December, though he returned with a 20-minute substitute cameo during Arsenal's 3-2 loss against Southampton before starting the next match as captain against Burnley. He was again absent, however, in the League Cup quarter-final loss to rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

But in the Gunners' Boxing Day draw against Brighton & Hove Albion, he lasted just the opening 45 minutes before being replaced at half-time. Ozil then missed Arsenal's 5-1 loss to Liverpool due to an unspecified knee concern.